S2, Ep.15- Are You Willing to Eat Pizza on a Monday? A Chat with Dr. Qiana O'Leary, the Social Justice Educator

Welcome back to another episode of the podcast! We are continuing our conversation with some dynamic educators of HISD. In this  episode, , Mrs. Muhammed and Mrs. Ebony,  bravely share their experiences within Houston's education system post-state takeover.

Mrs. Ebony pull back the curtain on the challenges teachers are facing at her NES-A campus. We discuss the struggles of navigating a compliance-driven environment, where scripted curricula fail to resonate with students and school libraries are repurposed as disciplinary spaces. Her accounts paint a vivid picture of a school culture that mirrors a prison, with teachers feeling constantly surveilled and students stripped of their freedoms.

Through her personal stories, we confront the harsh realities of student trauma and the lack of adequate support systems in place. Mrs. Muhammed and Mrs. Ebony shed light on the profound impact of neighborhood deaths and other crises on students, underscoring the urgent need for compassionate intervention.

Join us as we stand in solidarity with these courageous educators and amplify their voices in the fight for a more humane and equitable education system. This episode is a reminder that real change begins with listening to those on the frontlines of education and taking action to create a better future for all.

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!

Production/Engineering Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios
IG:@labsevenstudios
www.labsevenstudios.com

Support the show

In this latest episode, we sit down with Mrs. Muhammed, a resilient educator who has just emerged from a termination hearing within the Houston Independent School District (HISD). With the results now in, we discuss  the aftermath of the hearing, the ongoing uncertainty she faces, and what lies ahead for her and her students.

Join us as we explore the critical issue of instructional gaps her students have endured during her absence, exacerbated by the challenges of teacher "jail" and administrative bullying. With state testing looming and graduation requirements hanging in the balance, Mrs. Muhammed sheds light on the urgent need for support and stability within her classroom.

Through our conversation, we confront the disparities in disciplinary measures between teachers and students, highlighting the need for equitable treatment and accountability within the school system. Mrs. Muhammed shares her vision for a more balanced approach, where resources are allocated to support both educators and students alike.

Moreover, we delve into the importance of amplifying the voices of marginalized educators, particularly Black teachers, who often face unique challenges and injustices within the education system. Mrs. Muhammed advocates for the creation of platforms where teachers can speak out without fear of reprisal, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.

Join us as we stand in solidarity with Mrs. Muhammed and all educators who refuse to be silenced in the face of adversity. Together, we explore the path forward towards a more just and equitable educational landscape for teachers and students alike.

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!

Production/Engineering Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios
IG:@labsevenstudios
www.labsevenstudios.com

Support the show

In this  episode, we bring you the firsthand account of a teacher who is courageously confronting the systemic challenges within the Houston Independent School District (HISD). Despite facing termination for her advocacy, she refuses to be silenced as she shares her story of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Join us as we discuss the obstacles she has encountered, from standing up against a hostile principal to grappling with hidden testing data that undermines student learning. Through her honest and transparent accounts, we gain insight into the harsh realities of navigating limited resources, unaddressed grievances, and the isolating experience of "teacher jail."

Through her narrative, we uncover the deeper issues at play within HISD and the broader implications for educators striving to make a difference in their communities. Her unwavering commitment to her students and the pursuit of justice serves as a powerful call to action for systemic reform within our education system.

Tune in as we amplify her voice, shine a light on the injustices faced by educators on the frontlines of educational equity, and send her positive vibes as she faces possible termination. 

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!

Production/Engineering Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios
IG:@labsevenstudios
www.labsevenstudios.com

Support the show

Join us for a candid conversation with Mrs. Jackie Anderson, President of the Houston Federation of Teacher (HFT), as we discuss the pressing issues facing the Houston Independent School District (HISD) and the broader implications for education in Texas.

At the heart of our discussion is the controversial figure Superintendent Mike Miles and his implementation of the NES system, which has stirred significant animosity within the community. Mrs. Anderson sheds light on the reasons behind the widespread discontent, particularly highlighting the detrimental impact of the NES system on educators and students alike.

We also address the alarming transformation of school libraries in predominantly black and brown neighborhoods into detention centers or "Zoom Rooms", with all books removed—a move emblematic of systemic neglect and discrimination.  Mrs. Anderson discusses with us the deceitful tactics employed by district leadership, who promised educators substantial salary increases only to betray them once contracts were signed.

The conversation also addresses the pervasive issue of teacher bullying by administrators and its profound impact on educators' mental health. Mrs. Anderson shares poignant accounts and reflects on the urgent need to address this toxic culture within the district.

As we confront the  task of repairing the damage and rebuilding trust in the wake of these injustices, Mrs. Anderson offers valuable insights into potential pathways forward. She underscores the importance of community solidarity and collective action in advocating for systemic change and ensuring accountability from district leadership.

At the crux of our discussion lies the pivotal question: Are these changes driven by racial biases? Mrs. Anderson compellingly argues that the targeting of black and brown communities reflects a deliberate agenda to perpetuate a "Permanent Underclass," depriving students of color of opportunities for success and relegating them to a cycle of oppression. We discuss the stark disparities between schools in affluent areas and those in marginalized communities, highlighting the urgent need for equity and justice in education.

Tune in as we explore strategies for fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for all students in the Houston Independent School District.

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!

Production/Engineering Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios
IG:@labsevenstudios
www.labsevenstudios.com

Support the show

In this episode of our podcast, we continue our conversation with about the recent student walkout and protest at Madison High School, where students are pushing back against a new cell phone policy imposed by their school district, HISD, the district that has recently been taken over by the state's education authority (TEA). Our guest, TB, a student at Madison High School, offers a firsthand account of what life has been like since the TEA took over their school district, implementing policy changes that disproportionately affect schools in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, particularly those with predominantly students of color.

TB sheds light on the administration's treatment of students, which has been marked by inconsistency and lack of empathy. He discusses how teachers are being bullied by the administration, and how these dynamics are contributing to a loss of passion for learning among the student body.

We challenge the narrative perpetuated by the media, which often portrays the students as entitled troublemakers throwing tantrums over their phones. TB provides insight into the deeper issues at play and emphasizes that the protest is about more than just cell phones—it's about students demanding respect, dignity, and a voice in their own education.

Importantly, TB speaks not only for himself but also for the many students who feel silenced and fearful of retaliation from the administration. In a space where students are rarely given the opportunity to express their feelings and concerns about authority, we provide a platform for TB to share his truth and advocate for change.

Join us as we amplify the voices of these courageous students and explore the complexities of education policy, equity, and student empowerment in our public schools.

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!

Production/Engineering Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios
IG:@labsevenstudios
www.labsevenstudios.com

Support the show

In this episode of our podcast, we dive into the recent student walkout and protest at Madison High School, where students are pushing back against a new cell phone policy imposed by their school district, HISD, the district that has recently been taken over by the state's education authority (TEA). Our guest, TB, a student at Madison High School, offers a firsthand account of what life has been like since the TEA took over their school district, implementing policy changes that disproportionately affect schools in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, particularly those with predominantly students of color.

TB sheds light on the administration's treatment of students, which has been marked by inconsistency and lack of empathy. He discusses how teachers are being bullied by the administration, and how these dynamics are contributing to a loss of passion for learning among the student body.

We challenge the narrative perpetuated by the media, which often portrays the students as entitled troublemakers throwing tantrums over their phones. TB provides insight into the deeper issues at play and emphasizes that the protest is about more than just cell phones—it's about students demanding respect, dignity, and a voice in their own education.

Importantly, TB speaks not only for himself but also for the many students who feel silenced and fearful of retaliation from the administration. In a space where students are rarely given the opportunity to express their feelings and concerns about authority, we provide a platform for TB to share his truth and advocate for change.

Join us as we amplify the voices of these courageous students and explore the complexities of education policy, equity, and student empowerment in our public schools.

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!

Production/Engineering Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios
IG:@labsevenstudios
www.labsevenstudios.com

Support the show

In this episode, we discuss the concept of radical education with the inspiring Dr. Qiana O'Leary, a seasoned educator turned principal, and now the founder of an education consulting firm. Dr. O'Leary shares her transformative journey, leveraging her knowledge and skillset to champion the cause of students of color.

Our conversation covers various aspects of Dr. O'Leary's impactful career, from reducing high school dropout rates to creating systemic resolutions that improve school culture and organizational structures. Learn about her innovative approach to professional development through the progressive learning model and the importance of equity-centered instruction in shaping the future of education.

Amidst these discussions, she poses a fascinating question to us: "Are you willing to eat pizza on a Monday?" This metaphor challenges the compromise of one's core values to bring like-minded individuals into the fold. We explore the delicate balance of compromise and authenticity in the pursuit of a more inclusive education system.

Furthermore, the episode introduces a compelling query for radical educators: "Are you a Coretta/Michelle type or an Afeni/Malcolm X type?" This comparison prompts reflections on leadership styles and approaches within the realm of radical education.

Join us as we discuss the complexities of education, touching on the coddling of white female counterparts in the industry and the impact it has on the pursuit of radical change. Dr. Qiana O'Leary provides insights, challenges the status quo, and empowers educators to make a lasting impact on the lives of their students. Tune in for a conversation that goes beyond the conventional, inviting you to think, question, and inspire change in the field of education.

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!

Production/Engineering Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios
IG:@labsevenstudios
www.labsevenstudios.com

Support the show

Continuing our conversation with B. Drake, a seasoned professional in the field of child welfare with years of experience. He goes deeper into the stories about kids finding their way through state custody and foster homes. In this segment he discusses the privatization of foster care, which ironically sounds like the privatization of prison...Which then leads us to acknowledge that just like the school to prison pipeline exists, so does the CPS to prison pipeline! We discuss residential treatment facilities who want the kids with the highest needs/level of care because they benefit more from them financially. When those kids start to improve those behaviors and no longer need "high care", they are sometimes removed from those facilities because those facilities can't benefit from them financially. 

We again touch on how kids are placed in foster homes with parents who just view them as a paycheck and isolate them from the rest of the family. We talk about a young man who experienced this isolation after having an extremely rough life of neglect, only to be sexually abused once he entered into the system by the very foster parents that were supposed to care for him. 

We also discuss educational surrogates and their impact on students with IEPs in the school and court system. 

This was definitely a tear-jerker episode that I had to cut short because the truth was a bit too truthful for me. Tune in and let's hear your thoughts!

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!

Production/Engineering Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios
IG:@labsevenstudios
www.labsevenstudios.com

Support the show

In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with B. Drake, a seasoned professional in the field of child welfare with years of experience. We team up to really get into the nitty-gritty of the child welfare system, swapping heartfelt stories about kids finding their way through state custody and foster homes.

We dive deep into the challenging realities of the child welfare system, shining a light on the serious issues it faces. We're not shying away from talking about the troubling presence of corruption, often linked to financial motives. It's like pulling back the curtain on how some foster parents, instead of putting kids first, treat it as a business opportunity.

Our chat also delves into the heartbreaking issue of abuse within the system, giving a voice to the tough experiences many children go through. We also tackle the immense stress and pressure on case workers, unfairly taking the blame for the system's shortcomings.

As we chat, we get real about how being a caseworker can deeply impact personal relationships and physical health. This episode isn't just scratching the surface; it's a raw, honest talk about the challenges, injustices, and complexities woven into the fabric of the child welfare system.

Come join us as we unveil the harsh truths, share stories that deserve attention, and have a genuine conversation about the multifaceted issues within child welfare—issues that urgently need acknowledgment and change.

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!

Production/Engineering Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios
IG:@labsevenstudios
www.labsevenstudios.com

Support the show

Welcome to another episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast. We are prepping to return to work after the much needed winter break and I have some of my teacher besties with me to get the conversation started.  We joke around about our holiday shenanigans and I try to pry about their holiday hook-ups, lol!

We then get into the real discussion: Are teachers always supposed to be professional, selfless, sacrificial moral authorities with limited personal lives? How do societal expectations shape the way teachers are perceived, especially when it comes to personal aspects of their lives? We delve into the stereotypes that paint teachers as infallible authorities with limited personal lives, exploring the impact of these norms on our well-being and mental health. So, buckle up for laughter, real talk, and a glimpse into the unfiltered lives of teachers as we break the mold and go beyond the classroom on this rollercoaster of an episode.

And in the midst of it all, we confront the desire to shed the title of a role model for students, particularly when there's no increase in pay.

Plus, get ready for the launch of our spin-off series, "Teachers After Dark," where we shatter classroom norms and discuss the unfiltered realities of being a teacher without the judgment. We have a hypothetical discussion about what this spin-off series could look like and the topics that we should cover. We will definitely need the participation of our audience to get this spin-off series in motion!

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!

Production/Engineering Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios
IG:@labsevenstudios
www.labsevenstudios.com

Support the show